Alas Pilipinas Squads Deliver Historic Weekend Sweep

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMgvcS4Cqxs

The Philippines' U17 girls' and senior women's volleyball squads scored breakthrough wins over Mexico and Vietnam this past Saturday in Chile and Thailand, snapping a seven-year losing skid in the process.

In San Felipe, the Alas Girls stormed past Mexico, 25-19, 20-25, 25-18, 25-23. It marked the country's breakthrough win at the FIVB Girls U17 World Championship.

Bacolod standout Caera Celis torched the scoreboard with 24 points to anchor the victory. Xyz Rayco backed her up with 15 points off 12 kills, while Madele Gale bullied the net with five blocks.

Jhaynna Bulandres chipped in 10 markers, and Sharina Rhyza Lleses added seven. Nadeth Herbon, meanwhile, locked down the back row with gritty defense that kept Mexico's attackers off balance.

Thousands of miles away in Chiang Mai, the senior women finally snapped their skid against Vietnam. They edged the reigning Leg 2 champions in a nail-biting four-setter, 22-25, 25-23, 25-21, 25-22.

Eya Laure delivered the dagger, unloading 22 points and sealing the match with a thunderous kill against Tran Thi Thanh Thuy. The win pulled the Philippines level at 1-1 in the SEA V League, setting up a podium bid against Indonesia.

Both squads now eye follow-up statements. The Alas Girls chase a second straight win against Tunisia, while the senior squad looks to keep the momentum rolling versus Indonesia.

For a fan base that woke up before dawn on a rainy Saturday, the payoff was more than worth it. Filipino volleyball, young and seasoned alike, showed it belongs in the conversation on the international stage.